Beauty•Health
Science Meets Skincare: What's New in Dermatological Skin & Hair Care
16 June '25
7 min read
From your face to your scalp, derm-recommended care is reshaping routines for sensitive, dry and acne-prone skin. We break down what it means, the key ingredients to look for, and how to build a barrier-first ritual you’ll actually stick to.
If you’re the kind of person who checks ingredient lists before committing to a cleanser, follows dermatologists on TikTok, and considers a healthy skin barrier your love language – this one’s for you. There’s a growing buzz around dermatologist recommended skincare and hair care – but what does that actually mean? And more importantly, how do you build a routine around it without overcomplicating things? From barrier-first staples to scalp care that’s rooted in the same philosophy, here’s what’s new in derm skincare and haircare and what you need to know.
What is dermatologist-recommended skincare?
Dermatologist‑recommended skincare is all about formulas that work with your skin, not against it. Designed with sensitive, reactive and acne‑prone skin in mind, this category favours low irritant ingredients, science‑backed innovation and – most importantly – input from dermatologists[1][2].
You’ll often find these products free from fragrance and built around barrier‑supporting ingredients like ceramides, niacinamide, panthenol and thermal spring water[2][3].
It’s a space where brands like La Roche‑Posay, CeraVe and Dercos by Vichy stand out – all recommended by dermatologists and formulated with sensitive skin in mind[1][2][6]. Whether you’re after a minimalist cleanser, a soothing mist or a scalp serum that does more than just smell nice, these ranges are designed to deliver results without the guesswork.
TLC for dry, sensitive skin
If your skin’s feeling tight, flaky or just generally off‑balance, you’re not alone. Dry skin usually lacks oil and can be triggered by things like seasonal changes, indoor heating, long hot showers or using harsh soaps that strip the skin[4]. The key? Repair without overloading. Start with a gentle, soap free cleanser that won’t disrupt your skin barrier.
Ingredients like glycerin, ceramides and thermal spring water help to hydrate and calm without causing irritation – and they’re often the foundation of derm‑led formulations.
When it comes to moisturising, consistency is key. Depending on your skin’s needs, you might reach for a lightweight lotion or a richer cream – ideally with hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, which are known for their ability to help hydrate and support the skin moisture barrier over time[2][3]. Derm‑recommended brands like CeraVe and La Roche‑Posay champion this minimalist, barrier‑supporting approach – offering simple and efficient formulas for sensitive skin[1][2].
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Comfort for compromised skin: meet the Cicaplast range
When your skin’s feeling out of sorts – dry, sensitive or just not responding to your usual routine – La Roche‑Posay’s Cicaplast range steps in with exactly what you need (think of it as a cool, calm and collected sidekick for your skin). Known for its no fuss, barrier‑first formulas, Cicaplast is all about soothing stressed out skin and giving it space to recover[2].
At the heart of the range is a mix of dermatologist loved ingredients, including:
Panthenol (Vitamin B5) – a proven skin soother that helps hydrate and support skin moisture barrier repair
Madecassoside – derived from centella asiatica, known to help calm irritation and support skin recovery
Thermal spring water – helps rebalance the skin’s microbiome and soften the skin[2].
The newest arrival – Cicaplast Spray
The new Cicaplast Spray brings that same philosophy into a hands free, no‑touch format. This lightweight mist can be used on both face and body, making it ideal for hard‑to‑reach spots, sensitive areas or those “don’t touch my face” moments. It’s especially handy after travel, skin treatments, cold snaps or whenever your skin moisture barrier’s feeling off.
All La Roche‑Posay products have been formulated specifically for sensitive skin, recommended by dermatologists to support the skin microbiome – so you can feel confident using it when your skin just isn’t vibing with anything else[2].
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Breakouts, balance, and skin barrier care
Managing oily or acne‑prone skin isn’t about stripping it bare – it’s about finding the right balance between clarity and care. That’s where derm‑recommended skincare makes all the difference.
Oily skin produces excess sebum, which can mix with dead skin cells and lead to congestion. Acne‑prone skin tends to be more sensitive, and often needs consistent, soothing care to stay on track. The best approach is skin barrier first – and gentle all the way[2][3].
Here’s what that can look like:
Use a non‑comedogenic cleanser – gel or foam formulas with salicylic acid are a great starting point
Avoid harsh exfoliants and alcohol-heavy toners, which can dry the skin and increase oil production
Moisturise, always – even oily skin needs hydration. Look for oil-free options with ceramides or niacinamide
Consistency over intensity – your skin loves a steady, soothing routine.
Smarter skincare: CeraVe’s classics, now in refill pouches
CeraVe is already a go‑to for barrier‑supporting skincare – but now, it’s making your staples more sustainable, too. The brand has launched Eco-Recharge Refill pouches for four of its most-loved products:
Hydrating Cleanser – for normal to dry skin
Moisturising Lotion – lightweight, all-day hydration
Foaming Cleanser – ideal for oily or combination skin
Moisturising Cream – for dry to very dry skin
Each refill is designed to reduce plastic by 75% to 77%[5]. Refilling your CeraVe bottle or jar is easy – just open the pouch, remove the pump or lid, pour, and pop it back on. It’s a smart switch if you’re already loyal to the formulas – or just trying to cut back on bathroom empties without compromising on skincare that works.
Bonus: the refill format also offers better value per mL – you’ll save approximately 15% when you choose a refill pouch instead of a new bottle at the regular retail price[6].
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Acne support made easy, your two-step routine from CeraVe
Skincare doesn’t have to be complicated – but when you’re dealing with breakouts, oily skin or too many product options, it can feel overwhelming. For the first time, CeraVe’s two blemish control essentials are now available as a starter kit – making it easier than ever to build a routine that works.
We love a skincare shortcut – especially when it’s this effective. This simple duo is designed to help improve the appearance of acne while supporting the skin barrier with every step.
Step one: the Blemish Control Cleanser, formulated with salicylic acid, niacinamide, ceramides and purifying clay, is an effective exfoliator that helps remove dead skin cells and excess sebum, visibly reducing blackheads and the appearance of pores[3].
Step two: the Blemish Control Gel, a lightweight, hydrating formula with AHAs, BHAs, niacinamide and ceramides, works to visibly reduce blemishes and refine skin texture – while helping to maintain a healthy, balanced barrier[3].
Because when the routine’s this straightforward, showing up for your skin (and actually sticking to it) gets a whole lot easier.
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Why scalp care is the new skincare
We talk about hair a lot – the trends, the tools, the treatments. From curtain bangs to box dye, split ends to styling hacks, it’s easy to get caught up in the surface-level stuff. But the part of your hair routine that doesn’t get as much air time? Your scalp.
Now, scalp care is finally getting the attention it deserves. Once overlooked, it’s now taking over social media – and our shower shelves – thanks to derm-recommended treatments that treat it like the skin it is.
Just like your face, your scalp has its own microbiome, oil balance and hydration needs – and when it’s thrown off, your hair often reflects it too[7].
That’s where Dercos by Vichy comes in – powered by science to support the scalp – not just the strands. Its latest launch, Anti-Dandruff Serum 10, is a leave-in treatment to help address 10 scalp problems (hence the name) like itching sensations, visible flakes, discomfort and more.
Enriched with Piroctone Olamine (to help target dandruff) and Madecassoside (to help soothe the scalp) – it’s clinically tested to treat the appearance of dandruff and support scalp health between washes. It’s designed to work in harmony with the Anti-Dandruff DS Shampoo – so you can build a full routine around scalp care, not just surface‑level shine. Because beautiful, compliment-worthy hair starts where it grows.
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Skincare that makes sense
Whether you’re refreshing your skincare lineup or giving your scalp the attention it deserves, now’s the perfect time to do it. With new arrivals from La Roche‑Posay, CeraVe and Dercos by Vichy landing at Chemist Warehouse, and up to 40% off RRP for a limited time, it’s never been easier to build a routine that works.
References
CeraVe Australia. Dermatologist-Approved Skincare. https://www.cerave.com.au/about-us/developed-with-dermatologists
La Roche-Posay. Skincare Tips & Advice. https://www.laroche-posay.us/expert-advice/skincare-tips-and-advice.html
CeraVe Australia. Blog: Oily and Acne-Prone Skin. https://www.cerave.com.au/blog/oily-and-acne-prone-skin
Healthdirect. Skin. https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/skin
Supplier data. Bottles: 77% less plastic compared to 2 x 236mL bottles. Cream: 75% less plastic compared to 1 x 454mL jar.
Supplier data. Compared to purchasing 1 x 473mL bottle at RRP or 1 x 454mL jar at RRP.
Vichy Laboratories. Dercos Serum10 Product Page & Technical Info. https://www.vichy.com.au/expert-advice
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This article is for general information only. Always seek the advice of your pharmacist or other qualified health professional with any questions you may have regarding your skin health, skincare routine, or specific concerns.Enjoyed this? You'll love these...
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